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== Synonyms ==

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Shabdakalpadruma mentions multiple synonyms of the term Raja such as action, mutation, excitement. Some other meaning of the word Rajas in other contexts are Paraga (pollens), Strikusuma (menstrual blood), Dhuli(dust) etc., change, creation, generation, and passion.<ref name="ref2">Radhakantadeva, Vasu, V., & VASU, H.Śabdakalpadrumah ,(1886)Page No. 83, Available from https://www.sanskritlexicon.unikoeln.de/scans/cslapidev/servepdf.php?dict=skd&page=4-083 </ref> In the present context, rajas as [[Guna|guna]] of [[Prakriti|prakriti]](as mentioned in Sankhya Philosophy and Bhagwadgeeta) and [[Manas|mana]] (according to [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]]) is considered.

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Shabdakalpadruma mentions multiple synonyms of the term Raja such as action, mutation, excitement. Some other meaning of the word Rajas in other contexts are Paraga (pollens), Strikusuma (menstrual blood), Dhuli(dust) etc., change, creation, generation, and passion.<ref name="ref2">Radhakantadeva, Vasu, V., & VASU, H.Śabdakalpadrumah ,(1886)Page No. 83, Available from https://www.sanskritlexicon.unikoeln.de/scans/cslapidev/servepdf.php?dict=skd&page=4-083 </ref> In the present context, rajas as [[Guna|guna]] of [[Prakriti|prakriti]](as mentioned in Sankhya Philosophy and Bhagwadgeeta) and [[Manas|mana]] (according to [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]]) is considered.

== Etymology ==

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The word rajas is acquired from two terms, 'ranja' (means to be attached or devoted to) and 'asunnalopah' (something) , rajas is bound with the sansara, it refers to attachments, desires, greed and who doesn't have satisfaction in life.<ref name="ref3">Radhakantadeva, Vasu, V., & VASU, H.Śabdakalpadrumah ,(1886)Page No. 83, Available fromhttps://www.sanskritlexicon.unikoeln.de/scans/cslapidev/servepdf.php?dict=skd&page=4-083 </ref> Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is the quality representing activity, variability and urgency, second of the three [[Guna|guna]].[ Monnier Williams dictionary]<ref name="ref4">Monier-Williams, M. Page No.828 , (1872), Available from https://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/csl-apidev/servepdf.php?dict=mw72&page=0828 </ref>

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The word rajas is acquired from two terms, 'ranja' (means to be attached or devoted to) and 'asunnalopah' (something), rajas is bound with the sansara, it refers to attachments, desires, greed and who doesn't have satisfaction in [[Ayu|life]].<ref name="ref3">Radhakantadeva, Vasu, V., & VASU, H.Śabdakalpadrumah ,(1886)Page No. 83, Available fromhttps://www.sanskritlexicon.unikoeln.de/scans/cslapidev/servepdf.php?dict=skd&page=4-083 </ref> Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is the quality representing activity, variability and urgency, second of the three [[Guna|guna]].[ Monnier Williams dictionary]<ref name="ref4">Monier-Williams, M. Page No.828 , (1872), Available from https://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/csl-apidev/servepdf.php?dict=mw72&page=0828 </ref>

== Characteristics of rajas guna ==

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Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is chala(mobile), upasthambaka (supporting/encouraging),pravrittikara in nature(explained in detail on the part of the philosophical aspect of rajas [[Guna|guna]]) [Sankhyakarika]<ref name="ref5">Ishwarkrishna, Sankhyakarika with Abhinavarajlakshmi Bhashya by Gaudapada and hindi translation by Sitaramshashtri and Prof. Balashashta,Sankhyakarika number 12-13 , printed 2019 , Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashana , Varanasi , Page No.52-55 </ref>

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Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is chala(mobile), upasthambaka (supporting/encouraging), pravrittikara in nature(explained in detail on the part of the philosophical aspect of rajas [[Guna|guna]]) [Sankhyakarika]<ref name="ref5">Ishwarkrishna, Sankhyakarika with Abhinavarajlakshmi Bhashya by Gaudapada and hindi translation by Sitaramshashtri and Prof. Balashashta,Sankhyakarika number 12-13 , printed 2019 , Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashana , Varanasi , Page No.52-55 </ref>

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* Rajas dominant individuals are bound with doshas, active, greedy, roshaamsha(anger/wrath)??[Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]]4/36].

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* Rajas dominant individuals are bound with [[Dosha|doshas]], active, greedy, roshaamsha(anger/wrath)??[Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]]4/36].

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* Rajas dominant individuals have qualities such as cunningness, unhappiness (dukha), selfishness, cruelty, self-appraisal, anger,and desirousness. [Su.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] [[Sharira|Sharira]]. 1/18]

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* Rajas dominant individuals have qualities such as cunningness, unhappiness (dukha), selfishness, cruelty, self-appraisal, anger, and desirousness. [Su.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] [[Sharira|Sharira]]. 1/18]

* AshtangaSangraha has considered [[Sattva|sattva]], rajas, [[Tamas|tamasas]] mahaguna (A.S. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/29)

== Description of rajas dominance in Shreemad Bhagavad Geeta: ==

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Rajas dominant individuals are bound with samsara (the indefinitely repeated cycles of birth,misery and death), attachments, desires, and greed and don't have life satisfaction. [ShreemadbhagwatGeeta, Gunatrayavibhaga Yoga, 14/7-17] Following are the characters of rajas [[Guna|guna]]:

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Rajas dominant individuals are bound with samsara (the indefinitely repeated cycles of birth, misery and death), attachments, desires, and greed and don't have [[Ayu|life]] satisfaction. [ShreemadbhagwatGeeta, Gunatrayavibhaga Yoga, 14/7-17] Following are the characters of rajas [[Guna|guna]]:

# Ragatmaka: leads to attachment to material happiness and sexual urges

# Trishnasamudbhava: derived from excessive desire and ambition

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# Karmasangenabadhnatijeevam:binds the soul through attachment to actions

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# Karmasangenabadhnatijeevam: binds the soul through attachment to actions

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# Lobha:greediness

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# Lobha: greediness

# Pravritti: restlessness

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# Arambha:commencement of different karma or actions

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# Arambha: commencement of different karma or actions

# Karmanamashamaspruha: Excessively driven towards

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# Dukkha:cause of sorrow and unhappiness

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# Dukkha: cause of sorrow and unhappiness

== Rajas guna and panchamahabhuta relations ==

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Vayu ~~mahabhutais~~ dominant in rajas [[Guna|guna]], with chalatva(movement)as common quality. Agni mahabhuta is dominant in [[Sattva|sattva]] and rajas [[Guna|guna]]. They have common qualities like prakashatva (illumination) and chalatva (movement).[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/20][Dalhana on Su.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/20] Thus, it can be stated that the dravya with ~~vayuand~~ agnimahabhuta constitution dominate rajas [[Guna|guna]].

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[[Vayu mahabhuta|Vayu mahabhuta]] is dominant in rajas [[Guna|guna]], with chalatva(movement) as common quality. [[Agni mahabhuta|Agni mahabhuta]] is dominant in [[Sattva|sattva]] and rajas [[Guna|guna]]. They have common qualities like prakashatva (illumination) and chalatva (movement).[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/20][Dalhana on Su.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/20] Thus, it can be stated that the [[Dravya|dravya]] with [[Vayu mahabhuta|vayu]] and [[Agni mahabhuta|agnimahabhuta]] constitution dominate rajas [[Guna|guna]].

== Rajas and vatadosha ==

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~~Vatadoshais~~ dominant in rajas guna(rajas bahula). [Su.Sa. NidanaSthana 1/8] Sharangadhara has also termed the ~~vatadoshato~~ be rajas guna dominant.<ref name="ref6">Sharangdhar, Sharangdhar Samhita with English translation by Dr Srikantha Murthy, Kalidakakhyana Shariram Adhyaya,5/26, Prathama Khanda,Sixth Edition, 2006, Chaukhambha orientalia, Varanasi, Page No. 23 </ref>

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[[Vata dosha|Vatadosha]] is dominant in rajas guna(rajas bahula). [Su.Sa. NidanaSthana 1/8] Sharangadhara has also termed the [[Vata dosha|vatadosha]] to be rajas guna dominant.<ref name="ref6">Sharangdhar, Sharangdhar Samhita with English translation by Dr Srikantha Murthy, Kalidakakhyana Shariram Adhyaya,5/26, Prathama Khanda,Sixth Edition, 2006, Chaukhambha orientalia, Varanasi, Page No. 23 </ref>

== Relation between food and rajas guna ==

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The Bhagwat Geeta mentions different types of diet preferred by individuals of sattvika, rajasika, and tamasika constitution.[ShreemadbhagwatGeeta,GunatrayavibhagaYoga, 14th Chapter].The individuals with rajasika constitution are fond of food with bitter (katu), sour, salty, and hot.This food is tikshna (sharp, pungent), excessively dry (ruksha),and ~~causesa~~ burning sensation in abdomen and gastrointestinal tract (vidahinah).These foods can cause mental suffering (dukkha, shoka) and affliction with different diseases (amayam). Thus,the rajas dominance can be determined by the type of food he prefers to eat.

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The Bhagwat Geeta mentions different types of diet preferred by individuals of sattvika, rajasika, and tamasika constitution.[ShreemadbhagwatGeeta,GunatrayavibhagaYoga, 14th Chapter]. The individuals with rajasika constitution are fond of food with [[Katu|bitter (katu)]], [[Amla|sour]], [[Lavana|salty]], and hot. This food is tikshna (sharp, pungent), excessively dry (ruksha), and causes a burning sensation in abdomen and gastrointestinal tract (vidahinah).These foods can cause mental suffering (dukkha, shoka) and affliction with different [[Vyadhi|diseases]] (amayam). Thus, the rajas dominance can be determined by the type of food he prefers to eat.

== Manasaprakriti and types of rajasikaconstitution ==

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The predominance of a particular [[Guna|guna]] in [[Manas|mind]] impacts the psychological constitution. This becomes the predominant [[Manas prakriti|manas prakriti]] or psychic trait of the person.[Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 8/5-6] Three types namely sattvika, rajasika and tamasika based on the predominance of particular [[Guna|guna]] are described.[Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 3/13]The rajasika constitution develops due to "roshansha" or dominance of anger, hyperactivity and negative emotions. It is broadly classified into six sub-types as follows:

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The predominance of a particular [[Guna|guna]] in [[Manas|mind]] impacts the psychological constitution. This becomes the predominant [[Manas prakriti|manas prakriti]] or psychic trait of the person.[Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 8/5-6] Three types namely sattvika, rajasika and tamasika based on the predominance of particular [[Guna|guna]] are described.[Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 3/13] The rajasika constitution develops due to "roshansha" or dominance of anger, hyperactivity and negative emotions. It is broadly classified into six sub-types as follows:

<ol>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Asura (traits resembling negative personalities): This type of people are brave (shura), cruel (chanda), jealous of others (asuyaka), having prosperity (aishvaryavat), deceitful (aupadhika), having terrifying personality (rudra), merciless (ananukrosha), selfish/ self-indulged(atmapujaka) in nature. (Cha. Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|Sharira Sthana]] 4) </li>

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| [[Tamas|Tamas]]

| Day and night

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| Excess kapha(avarana)

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| Excess [[Kapha dosha|kapha]]([[Avarana|avarana]])

|-

|}

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[[Tamas|Tamas guna]] is the leading cause of sleep, [[Sattva|sattva guna]] is the cause of awakening, and rajas [[Guna|guna]] is the cause of the manifestation of dreams or a hyperactive [[Manas|mind]]. Rajas guna is responsible for the occurrence of dreams(swapna) in an individual,~~witheither~~ good or bad consequences.[Su.Sa. ShariraSthana 4/36]

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[[Tamas|Tamas guna]] is the leading cause of sleep, [[Sattva|sattva guna]] is the cause of awakening, and rajas [[Guna|guna]] is the cause of the manifestation of dreams or a hyperactive [[Manas|mind]]. Rajas guna is responsible for the occurrence of [[Swapna|dreams(swapna)]] in an individual, with either good or bad consequences.[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 4/36]

== Relation between prana and rajas guna ==

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[[Sattva|Sattva]], rajas, and [[Tamas|tamas]] are listed among twelve vital entities in body (dwadashaprana). [Su.Sa.~~ShariraSthana4~~/3]

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[[Sattva|Sattva]], rajas, and [[Tamas|tamas]] are listed among twelve vital entities in body (dwadashaprana). [Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 4/3]

== Assessment of rajas guna ==

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== Importance in prevention of diseases/ maintenance of health ==

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The dominance of rajas [[Guna|guna]] has an impact on the psyche of an individual. The individual with rajas dominant psyche needs stimulation or motivation from others to cope with the circumstances.[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 35/38] Hence the rajas dominant individuals are termed as those with mediocre mental strength (madhyamamanobala). (Dalhana on Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 35/38) Hence,like the [[Sharira|sharira]] [[Prakriti|prakriti]](somatic constitution), the [[Manas prakriti|manas prakriti]] (psychological constitution) also plays a vital role in determining an individual's characteristics contributing to a person's mental [[Health|health]] status. [[Manas prakriti|Manas prakriti]] is termed as [[Guna|guna]] [[Prakriti|prakriti]] or maha prakriti. [Su.Sa.ShariraSthana 4/98-99] The assessment of rajas [[Guna|guna]] dominance in an individual can help understand the psychological status and susceptibility to mental [[Health|health]] disorders. Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is also a determinant of vitality seated in the marma or vital points of the body.[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 6/35] Thus, the normalcy of rajasis essential in properly functioning the vital body organs. An individual devoid of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]], is called 'apta' or one with authoritative and authentic knowledge.[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 11/18-19] Excess of rajas [[Guna|guna]] can lead to biasedness or altered knowledge in an individual.One who is vigilant towards maintaining [[Health|health]] and consuming a beneficial diet is termed 'parikshaka'. When he is afflicted with rajas [[Guna|guna]] falls prey to various diseases.A wholesome diet and lifestyle is advised considering thestatus of three [[Guna|guna]]. [A.S. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 3/30] If not followed, the rajas-[[Tamas|tamas]] originated diseases occur in such individuals due to intellectual defects (prajnaparadha). [Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 28/36-38] Rajasika individuals tend to consume alcohol more frequently depending on mental strength and can reach the advanced states of excessive intoxication, alcohol dependency, and addiction more quickly than the sattvika individuals. Hence, one must consider the mental strength and type of alcohol (madya) before consumption.[Cha. Sa. ChikitsaSthana 24/68-69, 79] Thus, the balance of [[Triguna|triguna]] especially rajas [[Guna|guna]], should be considered for maintaining mental [[Health|health]] and avoiding psychological and psychosomatic disorders.

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The dominance of rajas [[Guna|guna]] has an impact on the psyche of an individual. The individual with rajas dominant psyche needs stimulation or motivation from others to cope with the circumstances.[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 35/38] Hence the rajas dominant individuals are termed as those with mediocre mental strength (madhyamamanobala). (Dalhana on Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 35/38) Hence,like the [[Sharira|sharira]] [[Prakriti|prakriti]](somatic constitution), the [[Manas prakriti|manas prakriti]] (psychological constitution) also plays a vital role in determining an individual's characteristics contributing to a person's mental [[Health|health]] status. [[Manas prakriti|Manas prakriti]] is termed as [[Guna|guna]] [[Prakriti|prakriti]] or maha prakriti. [Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 4/98-99] The assessment of rajas [[Guna|guna]] dominance in an individual can help understand the psychological status and susceptibility to mental [[Health|health]] disorders. Rajas [[Guna|guna]] is also a determinant of vitality seated in the marma or vital points of the body.[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 6/35] Thus, the normalcy of rajasis essential in properly functioning the vital body organs. An individual devoid of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]], is called 'apta' or one with authoritative and authentic knowledge.[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 11/18-19] Excess of rajas [[Guna|guna]] can lead to biasedness or altered knowledge in an individual.One who is vigilant towards maintaining [[Health|health]] and consuming a beneficial diet is termed 'parikshaka'. When he is afflicted with rajas [[Guna|guna]] falls prey to various [[Vyadhi|diseases]]. A wholesome diet and lifestyle is advised considering thestatus of three [[Guna|guna]]. [A.S. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 3/30] If not followed, the rajas-[[Tamas|tamas]] originated [[Vyadhi|diseases]] occur in such individuals due to intellectual defects (prajnaparadha). [Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 28/36-38] Rajasika individuals tend to consume alcohol more frequently depending on mental strength and can reach the advanced states of excessive intoxication, alcohol dependency, and addiction more quickly than the sattvika individuals. Hence, one must consider the mental strength and type of alcohol (madya) before consumption.[Cha. Sa. ChikitsaSthana 24/68-69, 79] Thus, the balance of [[Triguna|triguna]] especially rajas [[Guna|guna]], should be considered for maintaining mental [[Health|health]] and avoiding psychological and psychosomatic disorders.

== Importance in diagnosis and occurrence of diseases ==

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Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] are termed as the [[Manas|manas]] dosha. They are responsible for the occurrence of various mental disorders.[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/57, 25/11,Cha.Sa. VimanaSthana 6/6, A.H. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/21, Dalhana on Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/4] The disorders are of two types:rajas dominant and [[Tamas|tamas]] dominant. [Cha.Sa.NidanaSthana 1/4] The flickering nature of rajas [[Guna|guna]] makes it responsible for initiating pathogenesis and stimulating [[Tamas|tamas]] in the manifestation of disease.It is thus termed an initiator (pravartaka). [[Tamas|Tamas]] cannot proceed without the stimulation of rajas [[Guna|guna]].[Cha.Sa.VimanaSthana 6/9] Rajas [[Guna|guna]] and ~~vatadoshaplay~~ an important role in the spreading stage of dosha (prasaraavastha)in six stages of pathogenesis (shatkriyakala).[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 21/28] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] work in unison (anubandha) in the occurrence of diseases.[Cha.Sa.VimanaSthana 6/9] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] [[Guna|guna]] lead to the occurrence of conditions like kama(lust),krodha(anger), lobha(greed),irshya(jealousy),maana(ego), mada(intoxication), shoka(excessive sadness/ unhappiness),chittodvega(anxiety),bhaya(fear), harsha(excessive joyousness) etc.These can get afflicted along with [[Sharira|sharira]] dosha to cause various diseases and psychosomatic disorders. [Chakrapani on Cha.Sa. VimanaSthana 6/8] Vertigo occurs due to the dominanceof rajas [[Guna|guna]], pitta dosha, and vatadosha.[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 4/56] Rajasguna is also pivotal in unmadaand ~~apasmaradiseases~~.[Su.Sa.Uttar Tantra 61/4, Cha. Sa. Nidana Sthana 8/4, Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 10/4] Atattvabhinivesha is grave condition caused by the vitiation of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]].[Cha.Sa. ChiktsaSthana 10/59] Similarly the rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] individuals fall prey to disease after reaching the advanced stages of intoxication (madatyaya).[A.H.NidanaSthana 6/5] [Cha.Sa. ChikitsaSthana 24/46] Rajasika individuals are affected more quickly. [Cha. Sa.ChikitsaSthana 24/55] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] are involved in the pathogenesis of mada (intoxication)- murccha (syncope)- sanyasa (coma) conditions.[A.H. NidanaSthana 6/25] Similarly, in the historical description regarding the occurrence of rajayakshma, the prominence of rajas guna was observed in soma(moon).[Cha. Sa.ChikitsaSthana 8/7] It suggests the excess indulgence in activities to affect [[Health|health]] and can lead to degenerative diseases.

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Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] are termed as the [[Manas|manas]] [[Dosha|dosha]]. They are responsible for the occurrence of various mental disorders.[Cha.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/57, 25/11,Cha.Sa. VimanaSthana 6/6, A.H. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/21, Dalhana on Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 1/4] The disorders are of two types:rajas dominant and [[Tamas|tamas]] dominant. [Cha.Sa.NidanaSthana 1/4] The flickering nature of rajas [[Guna|guna]] makes it responsible for initiating pathogenesis and stimulating [[Tamas|tamas]] in the manifestation of disease.It is thus termed an initiator (pravartaka). [[Tamas|Tamas]] cannot proceed without the stimulation of rajas [[Guna|guna]].[Cha.Sa.VimanaSthana 6/9] Rajas [[Guna|guna]] and [[Vata dosha|vatadosha]] play an important role in the spreading stage of [[Dosha|dosha]] (prasaraavastha)in six stages of pathogenesis (shatkriyakala).[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 21/28] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] work in unison (anubandha) in the occurrence of [[Vyadhi|diseases]].[Cha.Sa.VimanaSthana 6/9] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] [[Guna|guna]] lead to the occurrence of conditions like kama(lust),krodha(anger), lobha(greed),irshya(jealousy),maana(ego), mada(intoxication), shoka(excessive sadness/ unhappiness),chittodvega(anxiety),bhaya(fear), harsha(excessive joyousness) etc.These can get afflicted along with [[Sharira|sharira]] [[Dosha|dosha]] to cause various [[Vyadhi|diseases]] and psychosomatic disorders. [Chakrapani on Cha.Sa. VimanaSthana 6/8] Vertigo occurs due to the dominanceof rajas [[Guna|guna]], pitta dosha, and [[Vata dosha|vatadosha]].[Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 4/56] Rajasguna is also pivotal in unmadaand apasmara [[Vyadhi|diseases]].[Su.Sa.Uttar Tantra 61/4, Cha. Sa. Nidana Sthana 8/4, Cha.Sa. Chikitsa Sthana 10/4] Atattvabhinivesha is grave condition caused by the vitiation of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]].[Cha.Sa. ChiktsaSthana 10/59] Similarly the rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] individuals fall prey to disease after reaching the advanced stages of intoxication (madatyaya).[A.H.NidanaSthana 6/5] [Cha.Sa. ChikitsaSthana 24/46] Rajasika individuals are affected more quickly. [Cha. Sa.ChikitsaSthana 24/55] Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] are involved in the pathogenesis of mada (intoxication)- murccha (syncope)- sanyasa (coma) conditions.[A.H. NidanaSthana 6/25] Similarly, in the historical description regarding the occurrence of rajayakshma, the prominence of rajas guna was observed in soma(moon).[Cha. Sa.ChikitsaSthana 8/7] It suggests the excess indulgence in activities to affect [[Health|health]] and can lead to degenerative [[Vyadhi|diseases]].

== Concept of rajas from a philosophical point ofview ==

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Thetheory of [[Triguna|triguna]] is fundamentally based on evolution as per both [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]] and Sankhya philosophy. The [[Prakriti|prakriti]] is considered trigunatmaka. Hence its 'vikara' or expressions are also 'trigunatmaka' in nature. Thus, whole universe is constitutedfrom the derivatives of [[Triguna|triguna]] (Srishtiutpatti).[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 24/8] Rajas guna, along with [[Sattva|sattva]] and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] also plays a vitalrole in the perception of this philosophical aspect. It is responsible for the generation, creation, and mutation of the srishti or universe. Rajas being active is responsible for stimulating both [[Sattva|sattva]] and [[Tamas|tamasguna]] intaijasaahankaraleading to the development of different vikara or the components of the universe.[Dalhana on Su.Sa.ShariraSthana 1/4] Thealliance or association of purusha with the 24tattva carries on as long as rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] are afflicted with it leading to rashipurusha (combination of 24 elements).The liberation from the effect (of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]]) by supremacy of [[Sattva|sattva]] leads to freedom ofpurusha i.e. moksha or salvation to get freedom from its alliance with the tattva. [Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/36] [Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/142]. Thus, the moksha is described as a state of [[Sattva|sattva]] predominance with absolute absence of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]]. [Cha.Sa.ShariraSthana 1/142] The rajas is thus termed as karanaor cause for gati (speed) and pravritti (trend).[Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 2/38] Sankhya philosophy (Sankhyakarika 12-14) also focuses on the study of [[Triguna|triguna]] where the rajas is representingapriti(dukkha or sorrow),pravritti(initiation, stimulation), upastambhakam(stimulator),chala(active, in motion).Thus, the study of rajas guna is necessary to understand the process of srishtiutpatti, rashi- purusha, moksha which form the philosophical basis of [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]].

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Thetheory of [[Triguna|triguna]] is fundamentally based on evolution as per both [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]] and Sankhya philosophy. The [[Prakriti|prakriti]] is considered trigunatmaka. Hence its 'vikara' or expressions are also 'trigunatmaka' in nature. Thus, whole universe is constitutedfrom the derivatives of [[Triguna|triguna]] (Srishtiutpatti).[Su.Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 24/8] Rajas guna, along with [[Sattva|sattva]] and [[Tamas|tamas guna]] also plays a vitalrole in the perception of this philosophical aspect. It is responsible for the generation, creation, and mutation of the srishti or universe. Rajas being active is responsible for stimulating both [[Sattva|sattva]] and [[Tamas|tamasguna]] intaijasaahankaraleading to the development of different vikara or the components of the universe.[Dalhana on Su.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/4] Thealliance or association of purusha with the 24tattva carries on as long as rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] are afflicted with it leading to rashipurusha (combination of 24 elements).The liberation from the effect (of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]]) by supremacy of [[Sattva|sattva]] leads to freedom ofpurusha i.e. moksha or salvation to get freedom from its alliance with the tattva. [Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/36] [Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/142]. Thus, the moksha is described as a state of [[Sattva|sattva]] predominance with absolute absence of rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]]. [Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 1/142] The rajas is thus termed as karanaor cause for gati (speed) and pravritti (trend).[Cha.Sa. [[Sharira Sthana|ShariraSthana]] 2/38] Sankhya philosophy (Sankhyakarika 12-14) also focuses on the study of [[Triguna|triguna]] where the rajas is representingapriti(dukkha or sorrow),pravritti(initiation, stimulation), upastambhakam(stimulator),chala(active, in motion).Thus, the study of rajas guna is necessary to understand the process of srishtiutpatti, rashi- purusha, moksha which form the philosophical basis of [[Ayurveda|ayurveda]].

== Rajas guna involvement in functioning of triguna(Sankhyakarika13)<ref name="ref8">Ishwarkrishna, Sankhyakarika with Abhinavarajlakshmi Bhashya by Gaudapada and hindi translation by Sitaramshashtri and Prof. Balashashta,Sankhyakarika number 12-13 , printed 2019 , Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashana , Varanasi , Page No.52-55 </ref> ==

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The working of the [[Triguna|triguna]] can be easily understood by two basic laws related to manasika doshas/[[Guna|gunas]]. The three [[Guna|guṇa]] always remain in dynamic interaction (mithunavritti). These three forces remain involved (anyonyaashraya) andinteract with each other in a variety of circumstances (anyonyaabhibhava). Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] survive in the presence of [[Sattva|sattva]]; [[Tamas|tamas]] and [[Sattva|sattva]] are put in motion in the field of rajas, while [[Sattva|sattva]] and rajas blend in the field of [[Tamas|tamas]]. The core of the three qualities is their interconnection. These contradictory entities also help in the functioning of one another. Rajas guna is thus the stimulator and initiator of all the actions.

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The working of the [[Triguna|triguna]] can be easily understood by two basic laws related to manasika [[Dosha|doshas]]/[[Guna|gunas]]. The three [[Guna|guṇa]] always remain in dynamic interaction (mithunavritti). These three forces remain involved (anyonyaashraya) andinteract with each other in a variety of circumstances (anyonyaabhibhava). Rajas and [[Tamas|tamas]] survive in the presence of [[Sattva|sattva]]; [[Tamas|tamas]] and [[Sattva|sattva]] are put in motion in the field of rajas, while [[Sattva|sattva]] and rajas blend in the field of [[Tamas|tamas]]. The core of the three qualities is their interconnection. These contradictory entities also help in the functioning of one another. Rajas guna is thus the stimulator and initiator of all the actions.

== Treatment insights in the management of rajas dominant disorders ==

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As mentioned earlier, the pathology of rajas [[Guna|guna]] can be an important factor in the occurrence of various mental disorders ([[Manas|manas]] vyadhi). [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] focuses on a holistic approach to balance [[Triguna|triguna]] and promote mental [[Health|health]]. Following measures can be undertaken for diseases involving the pathology of rajas [[Guna|guna]].

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As mentioned earlier, the pathology of rajas [[Guna|guna]] can be an important factor in the occurrence of various mental disorders ([[Manas|manas]] vyadhi). [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]] focuses on a holistic approach to balance [[Triguna|triguna]] and promote mental [[Health|health]]. Following measures can be undertaken for [[Vyadhi|diseases]] involving the pathology of rajas [[Guna|guna]].

<ol>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Manasikavegadharana(restraining psychological urges): Psychological urges like lobha (greed), shoka (sorrow), bhaya(fright), irshya(envious),dwesha(hate), raga(infatuation), ahankara(ego),nirlajja (indecency) etc. need to be controlled for the avoidance of mental [[Health|health]] conditions. [Cha. Sa. [[Sutra Sthana|Sutra Sthana]] 7/25-29] </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Yuktivyapashrayachikitsa(medicinal and diet therapy): Use of medicines (internal and external or both) and ahara(food). This is further classified into 2 types: </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Shamanakarma (pacification therapy): This treatment alleviates the dosha vitiation affecting the vitiation of rajas [[Guna|guna]] in the body. There are so many medicines described for treating mental illness. Few of them are described below: </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Shamanakarma (pacification therapy): This treatment alleviates the [[Dosha|dosha]] vitiation affecting the vitiation of rajas [[Guna|guna]] in the body. There are so many medicines described for treating mental illness. Few of them are described below: </li>

<ul>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Single herbs: Mandukaparni (Centellaasiatica Linn.), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulaspleuricaulis) etc.[Ch. Sa. chi. 1/30-31] </li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Use of medicated ghrita(ghee) preparations: Mahapaishachikaghrita, Brahmi ghrita, Lashunadighrita.[Ch.Chi. 10/17-25] Mahakalyanakaghrita, Kalyanakaghrita, Puranaghrita, Prapuranaghritaetc. [Cha. Sa.ChikitsaSthana. 9/35-61]. </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Rasa aushadhi: Smritisagarrasa [Yogratnakar, ApasamaraChikitsa], Unmadagajankusharasa [BhaishajyaRatnavali, UnmadRogadhikar]According to [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]], the nervous system is govern by Vata, an imbalance of Vata Dosha leads to poor mental alertness. These drugs alone or in combination helps to improve mental alertness when used on a regular basis. Some evidence based published research works are, </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Rasa aushadhi: Smritisagarrasa [Yogratnakar, ApasamaraChikitsa], Unmadagajankusharasa [BhaishajyaRatnavali, UnmadRogadhikar]According to [[Ayurveda|Ayurveda]], the nervous system is govern by [[Vata dosha|Vata]], an imbalance of [[Vata dosha|Vata Dosha]] leads to poor mental alertness. These drugs alone or in combination helps to improve mental alertness when used on a regular basis. Some evidence based published research works are, </li>

<li>A clinical study on effect of Brahmi Ghrita on Depression- Author- Yogesh S Deole, HM Chandola.<ref name="ref9">https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353910690_AYURVEDIC_MEDICINAL_IMPORTANCE_OF_SHANKHPUSHPI_CONVOLVULUS_PLURICAULIS_POTENTAIL_COGNITION_BOOSTING_HERB </ref></li>

<li>Ayurvedic Medical importance of Shankhpushpi: potential cognition boosting herb, Author- Shifali Thakur, Hemlata Kaurav.<ref name="ref10">https://www.ayujournal.org/article.asp?issn=09748520;year=2008;volume=29;issue=4;spage=207;epage=214;aulast=Deole;type=0 </ref></li></ul></ul>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Shodhana(purification procedures): Removal of the aggravated dosha ultimately leads toa state of equilibrium in the body, as the vitiated dosha can worsen the functioning of [[Triguna|triguna]]. Panchakarma procedures like vamana, virechana, nasya, niruha, anuvasanaare mentioned for treating mental illness. [Ch. Sa. ChikitsaSthana 10/61] </li></ol>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Shodhana(purification procedures): Removal of the aggravated [[Dosha|dosha]] ultimately leads toa state of equilibrium in the body, as the vitiated [[Dosha|dosha]] can worsen the functioning of [[Triguna|triguna]]. Panchakarma procedures like vamana, virechana, nasya, niruha, anuvasanaare mentioned for treating mental illness. [Ch. Sa. ChikitsaSthana 10/61] </li></ol>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Naisthikichikitsa: Eliminatingupadha(ambitions) and desires, which are the leading cause of mental illness, is the most important measure. Elimination of cravings leads to the eradication of all the diseases which are associated with the [[Manas|mind]]. This is the ultimate treatment process. </li>

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<li style="font-weight:bold">Naisthikichikitsa: Eliminatingupadha(ambitions) and desires, which are the leading cause of mental illness, is the most important measure. Elimination of cravings leads to the eradication of all the [[Vyadhi|diseases]] which are associated with the [[Manas|mind]]. This is the ultimate treatment process. </li>

<li style="font-weight:bold">Yoga: By practicing ashtanga yoga (yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi), one can achieve the state of equilibrium . This increases the [[Sattva|sattva guna]], decreases rajas and [[Tamas|tamas guna]], and helps balance the [[Manas|mind]]. </li></ol>

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<li>Jayant Narayan and Venkant R. Krishnan studied the impact of sattva and rajas on transformational leadership and karma yoga. The study revealed that two rajas dimensions' namely attribution and right and wrong reduce karma yoga.<ref name="ref12">Narayanan J, Krishnan V. Impact of Sattva and Rajas Gunas on Transformational Leadership and Karma Yoga. Journal of Indian Psychology. 2003 Jul 1;21:1–11. </ref></li>

<li>A randomized control trial of the effect of yogas on [[Guna|gunas]] (personality) and self-esteem innormal healthy volunteers is done by Sudheer Deshpande, HR Nagendra, and RaghuramNagarathna.<ref name="ref13">Deshpande S, Nagendra H R, Raghuram N. A randomized control trial of the effect of yoga on Gunas (personality) and Self esteem in normal healthy volunteers. Int J Yoga [serial online] 2009 [cited 2023 Jan 5];2:13-21. Available from: https://www.ijoy.org.in/text.asp?2009/2/1/13/43287 </ref> This study showed a reduction in rajas guna in females and contrary to previous study conducted by Dasa.<ref name="ref14">Dasa DG. Effects of the Hare Krsna Maha Mantra on Stress, Depression, and the Three Gunas .VNN Vaishnava News, Org Networh VNN4267. [cited in 1999]. Available from: http://www.vnn.org/usa/US9907/US10-4267.html. </ref> </li>

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<li>SharmaM.et.al.assessedtheeffectofsattvika, rajasika,andtamasikafactorsonanxietylevelsin cases and controls. The rajasikaindividuals were linked to impaired quality of life in these individuals.<ref name="ref15">Sharma MP, Salvi D, Sharma M. Sattva, Rajas and Tamas Factors and Quality of Life in Patients with Anxiety Disorders: A Preliminary Investigation. Psychological Studies. 2012 Dec 1;57. </ref> </li>

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<li>SharmaM.et.al.assessedtheeffectofsattvika, rajasika,andtamasikafactorsonanxietylevelsin cases and controls. The rajasikaindividuals were linked to impaired quality of [[Ayu|life]] in these individuals.<ref name="ref15">Sharma MP, Salvi D, Sharma M. Sattva, Rajas and Tamas Factors and Quality of [[Ayu|Life]] in Patients with Anxiety Disorders: A Preliminary Investigation. Psychological Studies. 2012 Dec 1;57. </ref> </li>

<li>A study of the relationship between [[Triguna|triguna]] and cattellian factors of personality done by Lakhwinder Singh. The study shows that the rajas [[Guna|guna]] denotes passionate, excitable, and aggressive states of [[Manas|mind]].<ref name="ref16">Singh L. A study of relationship between Triguna and Cattellian Factors of Personality. 2008. </ref></li>

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<li>A cross-sectional research study was focused on the relationship between three [[Guna|gunas]]-[[Sattva|sattva]], rajas, tamas with life satisfaction and perceived stress. This study showed individuals with rajasikapersonality correlated positively with perceived stress and negatively with life satisfaction.<ref name="ref17">Sharma S, Bhargav PH, Singh P, Bhargav H, Varambally S. Relationship between Vedic personality traits(Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas) with life satisfaction and perceived stress in healthy university students: A cross‑sectional study. AYU 2021;42:39‑44. </ref></li>

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<li>A cross-sectional research study was focused on the relationship between three [[Guna|gunas]]-[[Sattva|sattva]], rajas, tamas with [[Ayu|life]] satisfaction and perceived stress. This study showed individuals with rajasikapersonality correlated positively with perceived stress and negatively with [[Ayu|life]] satisfaction.<ref name="ref17">Sharma S, Bhargav PH, Singh P, Bhargav H, Varambally S. Relationship between Vedic personality traits(Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas) with life satisfaction and perceived stress in healthy university students: A cross‑sectional study. AYU 2021;42:39‑44. </ref></li>

<li>A study was conducted on formulating a new three-energy framework of personality for conflict analysis and resolution based on [[Triguna|triguna]] concept of Bhagavad Gita It depicted rajasika energy is considered as dynamic energy. Rajasika individuals were said to have active energy, is excessively passionate, ruthless, and motivated.<ref name="ref18">Modh S. Formulating a New Three Energy Framework of Personality for Conflict Analysis and Resolution based on Triguna Concept of Bhagavad Gita. Journal of Human Values. 2014 Oct 1;20:153–65. </ref> </li></ol>

Modern researchers conceptualize the definitions and manifestations of [[Triguna|triguna]] in human nature. A few of these are summarized as given in the table below<ref name="ref19">Singh L. A study of relationship between [[Triguna|Triguna]] and Cattellian factors of personality. Unpublished dissertation, Kurukshetra University, Haryana, India. 2008 Dec. </ref>:

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